Trump Considers Bagram Retake, May Resemble Afghan Re-invasion

President Donald Trump has expressed a goal to reoccupy Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, highlighting its strategic location near China. This ambition could resemble a reinvasion, potentially requiring over 10,000 troops and advanced air defenses, according to current and former U.S. officials. While Trump suggested the possibility of acquiring the base with Taliban consent, it remains unclear how such an agreement would be reached given the Taliban's historical opposition to U.S. military presence. Discussions under Trump's administration reportedly include broader diplomatic efforts with the Taliban, involving counterterrorism operations, prisoner exchanges, and possible economic agreements. Afghan officials emphasize the importance of political and economic relations based on mutual respect without a U.S. military presence. Any attempt to retake the base would be costly and logistically complex, with no active military plans currently confirmed.